Patient Data
A large heterogeneous mass is located in the left parietal lobe with thick irregular nodular peripheral enhancement and central non-enhancement suggesting necrosis. It is surrounded by a thin rim of high T2 signal. The enhancing component demonstrates restricted diffusion.
Case Discussion
The patient went on to have a craniotomy and histology confirmed a grade III oligoastrocytoma (NOS).
NOTE: This case predates the 2016 WHO classification of CNS tumor revision. As no 1p19q co-deletion status is available a formal diagnosis cannot be reached and the NOS is therefore used (not otherwise specified) - which is recognized in the current classification for cases where molecular information is unavailable. It should also be noted, that under the new classification both an astrocytic and oligodendroglial component needs to be identified, each with its own molecular markers. True oligoastrocytomas are therefore going to be rare, and this case would most likely be classified as either an astrocytoma or an oligodendroglioma.